RETAILERS here started stocking up their inventories as early as June amid port congestion and supply chain disruptions that are threatening to stymie the anticipated spike in demand ahead of the Christmas and festive season.

Some are even urging customers to make their pre-orders now and are warning of higher prices for select goods.

Supply chains, which are still reeling from the aftermath of the Covid-19 pandemic, are struggling to keep up with the booming consumer demand. These unresolved snags along with issues such as labour shortages and poor weather have led to severe backlogs at ports around the world.